Tool Test: Recip Blade Demolition Derby

Reciprocating saws are indispensable for demolition work. They save time, and for some cuts they're the most practical power tool on the job site. Years ago, however, the usefulness of a recip saw was limited by the short service life and cutting capability of the blades. Most early blades were made of highcarbon steel, approximately .035-inch thick, hardened to about Rockwell 65. These inexpensive blades could perform general cutting tasks, but there was a tradeoff between flexibility and durability. Steel that could be sufficiently hardened to provide a good cutting edge lacked the tensile strength and flexibility that would allow it to hold up under severe use, like cutting nail-embedded wood. To improve performance, engineers were faced